In celebration of the 10th annual McDonald’s 365Black Awards, McDonald’s announced today it is expanding the program by inviting more than 2,500 consumers to attend the star-studded, “golden” carpet event. Hosted by award-winning actress Taraji P. Henson, the awards show will be held Saturday, July 6 during ESSENCE Festivalâ„¢ weekend and welcome a number of celebrity appearances and performances to the New Orleans Theater at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center.

“From the youngest CEO to ever open the NASDAQ to a stellar songstress, McDonald’s is proud to recognize this year’s recipients for positively shaping our communities each day,” said Rob Jackson, McDonald’s U.S. marketing director. “We are excited to share this historic ceremony with the consumers whose lives are impacted by the work of our honorees.”

Prior to the ceremony, actress/comedian Kym Whitley will cover the celebrity action from the “golden” carpet. An all-star lineup of performers, including KEM, Amber Riley and Erica Campbell, will pay tribute to the honorees and keep the crowd grooving to their soulful sounds.

McDonald’s 365Black Awards launched in 2003 as an extension of the company’s 365Black platform, which celebrates the pride, heritage and achievements of African-Americans year-round. The 2013 program is a free, ticketed event. Consumers can visit http://www.eventfarm.com/365BlackAwards to register for tickets.

“McDonald’s is committed to being deeply rooted in the communities we serve 365 days a year, both inside and outside of our restaurants,” Jackson said. “We are committed to engaging with our neighbors and strive to continually create positive programs that bring social awareness to areas that are important to them.”

Those who miss the live awards ceremony can still share in the experience by watching the broadcast on Black Entertainment Television (BET ®) network in August. Additionally, consumers can follow @McDonalds on Twitter for updates on the awards show and join the conversation using #365Black.

About Hassahn Liggins

Hassahn is no stranger to the power of words. Just as Lebron took his talents to South Beach, the Chicago native has taken his talents to Hollywood and beyond. His ability to manipulate the English language has led to a career using his gift. He currently writes songs for TV/Film; he has co-written a book alongside Dr. Kerby T Alvy Ph.D; Hassahn produced and wrote DEMOs documentary film, and of course he scribes for Radio Facts on the daily.